Living in Longview is incredible – Dense forests, mild climate, and unmatched scenic beauty. The same things, however, also make it easy for various pest species to thrive and survive. As a homeowner, you must do more than just react to infestations. Yes, you have to address a current pest problem immediately, but you should also take proactive steps to prevent it. Try this guide to learn about common pest problems and effective strategies that can help counter them. 

A look at Longview pests

All sorts of pests live in Longview. The ones you are most likely to find inside your home include ants, especially carpenter ants and house ants. Rodents like mice and rats are also around, particularly during winter months when they seek shelter and warmth. Spiders like black widow and hobo spiders are common, and so are termites, hornets, and wasps. Commercial properties and older homes are susceptible to bed bug infestations, too. 

Prevention is key: Things you can do 

If someone told you about using pesticides and chemicals to address an infestation, do not take their advice. Using professional-grade products without knowledge is unsafe and risky. Instead, consider the following steps:

1. Ensure all entry points to the house, such as gaps, holes, and cracks, are inspected and sealed.
2. If you don’t have meshes or screens on windows and doors, you should consider installing them as soon as possible. 
3. Store your food in airtight containers, and if you haven’t replaced older containers in a year or two, it is about time that you replace them. 
4. Ensure you clean crumbs, spills, and food waste immediately. Pests are constantly looking for food sources. 
5. Most species need moisture to survive. Make sure to fix all plumbing issues and peaks without delay. If you have moisture-prone rooms, use dehumidifiers regularly. 
6. Spend on landscaping. Trimming vegetation and tree branches from time to time will ensure pests don’t find bridges to get inside. 
7. Proper waste management is a must. You must throw garbage properly, and if your trash cans are old and don’t have secure lids, consider replacing them. 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Longview Homes

Many pest control companies in the city use IPM principles for their services. IPM follows a holistic approach that isn’t just about using chemicals and pesticides but more about prevention, management, and control. If you choose a preventive pest control plan, technicians will come for inspections to check early signs. They will also rely on safer, better ways to counter an infestation. For instance, if there are rodents, they may use traps, baits and exclusion steps first. Pest exterminators will also focus on targeted and responsible use of chemicals, and the products are often approved to be safe for the environment. 

Points to choose a pest control company 

Now that you know professional extermination is safer and better, how do you choose a local company worth your money? Here are some quick points:

1. Ensure the company has a valid license. 
2. Check whether the exterminator is insured – Workers’ comp insurance & and liability insurance. 
3. Ask whether they will do an inspection before giving a quote. 
4. Discuss their methods, means, and products. 
5. Check whether the company has good and positive reviews online. Ask for references, too. 
6. Review whether the company’s pricing includes everything. 
7. Confirm they will offer a warranty on the task. 
8. Check if the team is bonded and trained. 
9. Consider if the exterminator also offers preventive pest control plans. 
10. Ask how often they can inspect your home for signs of infestation

Nothing compares with the expertise of a competent pest control team. While a regular bug spray may kill a few insects, you have to turn to pro technicians to fix an active infestation and protect your home from further pest invasions. 

Clare Louise